TSgt. Sean Barton, a pararescueman assigned to the 320th Special Tactics Squadron, died Oct. 30 from injuries sustained while rappelling during training near Kathmandu, Nepal, according to a Nov. 1 AFSOC release. “Sean was a selfless leader on our team,” said Capt. Michael Erickson, 320th STS combat rescue officer and Barton’s team leader. “He aggressively pursued excellence with a smile on his face and laughter never far behind. His love for his family, loyalty to his team, and relentless determination serve as an example for us all.” Barton, who joined the Air Force in 2003, has served in both Iraq and Afghanistan and is a recipient of multiple Air Medals.
President Donald Trump on July 4 signed into law $150 billion in defense funds as part of the tax-and-spending package known as the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” after congressional Republicans approved the legislation in narrow, drawn-out votes earlier this week.
